Portable radio system for dual programmable push-to-talk buttons and method for the same

ABSTRACT

A portable radio system including dual programmable push-to-talk (PTT) switches is disclosed. One embodiment includes the PTT switches positioned so as to permit ambidextrous operation of the portable radio. Another embodiment allows a user to program the PTT switches to execute different functional tasks.

BACKGROUND Field

This disclosure generally relates to the field of radio frequencycommunication systems, and more specifically to devices, systems, andmethods for providing a dual, programmable push-to-talk (PTT) capabilityin a radio system.

Description of the Related Technology

Military units operate in a theater of operation, where the theater caninclude the entirety of the air space, land, and sea area that is orthat may potentially become involved in military operations. Themilitary units will be used strategically in the theater to execute amission or objectives outlined in a concept of operations (CONOPS). Inorder to execute the CONOPS, the military units typically operate insmaller units separated throughout the theater, and rely on variouscommunication channels to maintain situational awareness of each group.Situational awareness refers to the ability of each group to identify,process, and comprehend critical elements of information regarding eachgroup with respect to the mission. Loss of communication between groupscan lead to loss of situational awareness, increasing the potential forcatastrophic events. The various communication channels used in supportof the CONOPS include wireless communications over radio waves, oftenimplemented using a half-duplex radio, colloquially known as awalkie-talkie, a handheld radio, or simply a radio.

The radio provides immediate, bi-direction audio communication betweenmilitary units that are separated by a geographical distance or aphysical structure. The half-duplex radio provides communication in bothdirections to two parties, but only one direction at a time (i.e.,communication is not provided in both directions simultaneously).Typically, once a party begins receiving a signal, that party must waitfor the transmitter to stop transmitting the signal, before replying.Half-duplex radios conserve bandwidth, since only a single communicationchannel is needed, which is shared alternately between the two parties.For example, the radio requires only a single frequency forbidirectional communication, while a full-duplex device (like a cellphone), requires two frequencies to carry the two simultaneous voicechannels, one in each direction.

The use of radios in the theater has shown that the radio, and anyassociated equipment, must be designed to operate reliably in harshusage environments and conditions, such as strong vibrations and shock,extreme temperatures, and wet or dusty conditions. As such, the radiodesign has become “ruggedized” to increase the device robustness andability to tolerate harsh usage and environments. A primary feature of aruggedized radio is the thicker and stronger housing compared to a radiodesigned for civilian use. This provides a relatively controlledenvironment for the installed electronics of the radio even in harshenvironments. The installed electronics themselves may be selected anddesigned based on their ability to withstand higher and lower operatingtemperatures, and their ability to withstand shock. The ruggedized radiocan also incorporate features such as fully sealed keypads or switchesto protect against intrusion by dust or liquids, and scratch-resistantscreens that are readable in direct sunlight.

The ability to operate the radio with one hand can be a criticalnecessity to military personnel. Modern radios, in general, includenumerous functional features that require some type of user input.Designing such devices for single-handed operation, therefore, canpresent a substantial challenge. One such feature that requires userinput is the push-to-talk (PTT) switch found on virtually every radio.The PTT switch allows a user to transmit audio, usually the user'svoice, to another user who receives the transmitted audio. To transmitaudio, a PTT switch must be held down, or activated, for the duration ofthe audio transmission. To receive a response transmission from theother user, the PTT switch must be released, or deactivated. Radios aretypically limited to only one PTT switch and one microphone for voiceinput, such that the ergonomics associated with the device are limitedto a right-handed operator. The single microphone input has value, inthat more than one microphone would introduce additional noise to theaudio transmitted from the radio. Hence, operating the PTT switch of aradio or other type of half-duplex communication device using a lefthand, while simultaneously operating the numerous functional features ofthe radio, is difficult if not impossible for the average user with adominant left hand. Therefore, a need exists for an ambidextrous PTTcapability for the user with a dominant left hand.

An advantage offered by the radio is its mobile characteristics. Themilitary grade radio is not only ruggedized to resist harshenvironments, but it is wireless and compact enough to be brought tothese environments without creating a weight or tactical detriment tothe user. The radio owes its mobility to a battery that provides it withpower for a fixed duration. Generally, the battery is contained in thehousing of the radio, requiring the user to disassemble the radio inorder to replace the battery. However, the military unit may spendextended periods of time in theater without access to the tools requiredto replace a dead or faulty battery, or without access to a batterycharging device. Furthermore, while the radio may be operated by primarycells (dry cells) or by rechargeable secondary cells, the cost ofcontinual replacement of dry cells, as well as the burden of maintaininga readily available store of dry cells in theater, makes use of thesecondary or rechargeable cell more desirable and tacticallyadvantageous. The use of such secondary cells permits the use of abattery recharger. Therefore, a need exists for an ambidextrous radiowith a quick release capability that allows the user to easily replacethe battery with a spare, and a mobile mount that can charge both theradio-attached battery and the spare.

The mobility of the radio allows the military unit to carry the radio onfoot, but typically, the radio can also be integrated with a wirelesscommunication system intended for terrestrial users. A tacticalmulti-band radio system is a wireless communication system intended foruse by terrestrial users in vehicles or on foot, that includes the radioas well as a portable radio system. The tactical radio system allows themilitary unit flexibility in communication by integrating the radio withthe portable radio system. For example, the portable radio system can beinstalled in a vehicle and attached to a more robust antenna thatprovides a broader spectrum of frequencies than that available to theradio carried on foot. Another advantage is the ability to separate theradio from the portable radio system while maintaining communicationlinks on both sides.

Typically, when the user integrates the radio with the portable radiosystem, the functionality of the radio is replaced with thefunctionality of the portable radio system. Often, this can result inloss of the user preferred functionality, such as, user preferredfrequency channels, stored data, and radio modes not available to theportable radio system (e.g., call list stored on the radio, name andcall tone tagging, etc.). Furthermore, the radio can be docked orintegrated with the portable radio system in a slightly sideways ortorqued manner. In this case, the radio may not fully integrate with theportable radio system. Similarly, removal of the radio from a docked orintegrated state from the portable radio system can result in loss ofcommunication link and data due to an abrupt loss of data communicationbetween the portable radio and the portable radio system, or animmediate change from portable radio system functionality to a defaultradio functionality.

Therefore, a need exists to allow for exchange of data between the radioand the portable radio system to allow for a functional handshakebetween the two devices, in order that functionality of both the radioand the portable radio system can exist. Furthermore, a need exists foran electro-mechanical indication of both full integration and fullseparation between the radio and the portable radio system so that nodata or functionality is lost between the two devices.

SUMMARY OF CERTAIN INVENTIVE ASPECTS

The systems, methods and devices of this disclosure each have severalinnovative aspects, no single one of which is solely responsible for thedesirable attributes disclosed herein.

One innovation includes a ruggedized, handheld radio for bidirectionalfield communication. The handheld radio includes a housing, and ahalf-duplex transceiver arranged in the housing and configured totransmit and receive signals in half-duplex mode over a radio network.The radio includes a first push-to-talk (PTT) switch and a second PTTswitch configured to switch from a voice reception mode to a voicetransmission mode, where the first PTT switch is located on a left sideof the housing and the second PTT switch is located on a right side ofthe housing.

For some embodiments, the handheld radio includes a processor and memoryconfigured to store a plurality of functional profiles associated withthe PTT switches. For some embodiments, the handheld radio includes akeypad, mounted on the housing and including a plurality of buttons,where each functional profile comprises a mapping of functions tobuttons. For some embodiments, each functional profile comprises afunctional assignment for each PTT switch. For some embodiments, eachfunctional profile includes at least one of a first ergonomic profileassociated with a left-handed user and a second ergonomic profileassociated with a right-handed user. For some embodiments, the handheldradio includes a third ergonomic profile configured to assign anunlocking function to the first PTT switch, where activation of thesecond PTT switch is configured to initiate the voice transmission modewhile the first PTT switch is activated, the voice transmission modeenabled for a time period that the second PTT switch is activated. Insome embodiments, a fourth ergonomic profile is configured to assign afrequency channel selection functionality to at least one of the firstPTT switch and the second PTT switch. In some embodiments, the handheldradio is constructed in compliance with MIL-STD-810. In someembodiments, the PTT switches are arranged symmetrically about avertical axis. In some embodiments, the handheld radio includes a fieldprogrammable gate array (FPGA), wherein the FPGA is electricallyconnected to the first and second PTT switches. In some embodiments,each of the PTT switches have an ergonomic shape for gripping by eitherof a left hand and a right hand. In some embodiments, the housingcomprises an ergonomic shape for gripping by either of a left hand and aright hand.

One innovation includes a method of operating a ruggedized, handheldradio. The method includes transmitting, via a transceiver, signals inhalf-duplex mode over a radio network, receiving, via the transceiver,signals in half-duplex mode over the radio network, and switching from avoice reception mode to a voice transmission mode using at least one ofa first push-to-talk (PTT) switch and a second PTT switch, wherein thefirst PTT switch is located on a left side of the radio and the secondPTT switch is located on a right side of the radio.

In some embodiments, the method includes retrieving a functional profileof a plurality of functional profiles, via a processor, from a memoryconfigured to store each functional profile associated with the PTTswitches. In some embodiments, the plurality of functional profilescomprise at least one of a first ergonomic profile associated with aleft-handed user, and a second ergonomic profile associated with aright-handed user. In some embodiment, the method includes a thirdergonomic profile configured to assign an unlocking function to thefirst PTT switch, wherein activation of the second PTT switch isconfigured to initiate the voice transmission mode while the first PTTswitch is activated, the voice transmission mode enabled for a durationof time that the second PTT switch is activated. In some embodiments,the method includes a fourth ergonomic profile configured to assign afrequency channel selection functionality to at least one of the firstPTT switch and the second PTT switch. In some embodiments, the PTTswitches are located on a left side and a right side of the radiorespectively, such that the PTT switches are symmetrical about avertical axis.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front left perspective view of a tactical multi-band radiosystem including a handheld radio and a mobile mount.

FIG. 2A is a front left and top perspective view of the handheld radioequipped with programmable, ambidextrous PTT switch functionality. ThePTT switches are detached to illustrate form function.

FIG. 2B is a front plan view of the handheld radio unit equipped withprogrammable, ambidextrous PTT switch functionality. The PTT switchesare detached to illustrate form function.

FIG. 2C is a front right and top perspective view of the handheld radioequipped with programmable, ambidextrous PTT switch functionality. ThePTT switches are detached to illustrate form function.

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the handheld radio.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart that illustrates operation of the handheld radiobased on whether the portable radio is in a mounted or unmounted state.

FIG. 5 is a plan view of a portion of the handheld radio and mobilemount, with a magnified view of a portion of a paddle locking system.

FIG. 6A is a right side perspective view of the handheld radio attachedto the mobile mount in a locked position.

FIG. 6B is a right side perspective view of the handheld radio attachedto the mobile mount in an unlocked position.

FIG. 7 is a front left perspective of the paddle locking system, with amagnified view of an electrical interface for functionally coupling thehandheld radio to the mobile mount.

FIG. 8 is a front plan view of a portion of the handheld radio andmobile mount, with magnified view of a spare battery attached to abattery charger on the mobile mount.

FIG. 9A is a front left perspective view of the handheld radio attachedto the mobile mount, illustrating a first step for attaching the sparebattery to the battery charger.

FIG. 9B is a front left perspective view of the handheld radio attachedto the mobile mount, illustrating a second step for attaching the sparebattery to the battery charger.

FIG. 9C is a front left perspective view of the handheld radio attachedto the mobile mount, illustrating a third step for attaching the sparebattery to the battery charger.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS

It will be readily understood that the components of the embodiments asgenerally described herein and illustrated in the appended figures couldbe arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations.Thus, the following more detailed description of various embodiments, asrepresented in the figures, is not intended to limit the scope of thepresent disclosure, but is merely representative of various embodiments.While the various aspects of the embodiments are presented in drawings,the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale unless specificallyindicated.

Portable Radio Mount

FIG. 1 is a front left perspective view of a tactical multi-band radiosystem 200 including a mobile mount 110 and a handheld radio, or simplyradio 100. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the mobile mount 110 includes anumber of mounting elements 145 a-c for mounting the mobile mount 110 toa structure. For example, the mobile mount 110 can include four (4)total mounting elements 145 a-c. In another example, the mobile mount110 can include a locking rail system or harness for attaching themobile mount 110 to a structure. In the illustrated embodiment, themobile mount 110 can be attached to a mounting base 150, or a radioshelf of the structure. The structure can be a console and/or frame of avehicle, or a semi-permanent or permanent building such as a groundstation. Here, the mobile mount 110 is physically ruggedized, and thus,can be constructed using an impact-resistant material such as highimpact plastic or metal.

The mobile mount 110 includes an enclosure 130 or container that takesthe form of a niche or cavity for integration of the handheld radio 100with the mobile mount. The enclosure 130 is designed such that placementof the radio 100 into the enclosure 130 provides consistent and securepositioning that avoids movement. For example, the enclosure 130includes a bottom surface and a rear surface that holds the radioupright. The enclosure 130 also include front and side surfaces thatprevent the radio 100 from falling or moving. Holding the radio 100 in asecure and upright position improves the efficiency of a radio chargingmechanism (not illustrated). The enclosure 130 of the mobile mount 110includes conductive contacts for charging a battery 155 of the radio100. The design of the enclosure 130 is such that when the radio 100 issecured in the enclosure, conductive contacts in the enclosure 130connect with conductive contacts on the radio 100 to charge the battery155. The mobile mount 110 includes a projected surface area or ridges125 above the enclosure 130. The ridges 125 protect the radio 100 fromcollision from foreign objects while secured in the enclosure. Theridges 125 also provide supportive surfaces that stabilize the top ofthe radio 100 and prevent lateral movement.

Still referring to FIG. 1, the mobile mount 110 includes an attachedpaddle locking system 105 (the system 105 is shown in the exploded viewas a separate detailed part merely for didactic purposes) for bothlocking and unlocking the radio 100 to and from the mobile mount 110.The paddle locking system includes a gasket 165 and an array ofconductive pins 160 having one or more electrically conductive terminalsconfigured to engage one or more receptacles located on the back of theradio 100. The gasket 165 is constructed of an elastomeric material(e.g., rubber, silicone, or plastic) for creating a seal between theradio 100 and the mobile mount 110 against outdoor environmentalconditions in the field. The conductive pins 160 provide a functionaland physical interface to the radio 100 via an electrical componentreceptacle (ECR) 315, discussed in detail below. Functionally, theconductive pins 160 provide an interface for which the radio 100 can becontrolled via input devices on the mobile mount 110. As one example,the user may attach an external microphone handset 510 (FIG. 5) to themobile mount 110, where the external microphone handset 510 includes aPTT switch. In another example, the mobile mount 110 can include asoftware controlled selector knob on the control panel 120 that can beconfigured to control functions of the mobile mount 110 and/or radio100. For example, the selector knob can be programmed to change afrequency channel, adjust audio volume, contrast and brightness of adisplay, and a squelch level. The conductive pins 160 can also providean interface for which data can be communicated from the radio 100 to anoutput device on the mobile mount 110. Audio signals received by theradio 100 can be broadcast over an audio speaker system (notillustrated) on the mobile mount 110.

In some embodiments, the mobile mount 110 includes a power connector 175for attaching a power source, and an antenna connector 180 forconnecting an external antenna. The conductive pins 160 can bephysically integrated with the antenna connected to the mobile mount110. In such a configuration, the conductive pins 160 can extend thefunctionality of the antenna to the radio 100 while the radio 100 ismounted. Here, the mobile mount 110 includes an indicator panel 170 usedto provide visual indicators. For example, the indicator panel 170 caninclude a circuit with a number of lights for indicating faultoccurrences or a state of the radio 100 and mobile mount 110. The faultoccurrences can include low or no battery power, connection fault, andcircuit failure. The state can include a power-on indicator, a batterycharging indicator, and a battery full indicator.

In the depicted embodiment, the mobile mount 110 includes a controlpanel 120 functionally integrated with the radio 100, when mounted. Thecontrol panel 120 includes input devices and output devices, or userinterface components, that allow the user to exploit the functionalityof the radio 100 and/or mobile mount 110. The input devices can include,by way of example, a keypad, navigation keys, a microphone, switches,and buttons for controlling the radio 100 and/or the mobile mount 110.Each of the listed input devices is well known in the art, and thereforewill not be further described. Any known, or input device of the futuresuitable for the particular application, can be used. The output devicescan include an audio speaker system (not illustrated) and indicatorpanel 170, for example.

Still referring to FIG. 1, the mobile mount 110 includes an interfacepanel 135. The interface panel 135 includes ports for connectingancillary equipment. As one example, the ancillary equipment includescomputing systems, such as laptops, tablets, smart phones, and othercomputing devices. The ports include interface elements for connectingwire harnesses and serial communication interfaces. The functionality ofthe radio 100 and/or the mobile mount 110 can be updated or modifiedusing a computing system connected to the interface panel 135.

Portable Radio

FIG. 2A is a front left and top perspective view of the radio 100equipped with programmable, multiple PTT switch functionality. The PTTswitches 205 a-b are shown as detached from the radio merely fordidactic purposes. FIGS. 2B and 2C are substantially similar, and show afront plan view of the radio 100, and a front right and top perspectiveview of the radio 100, respectively.

The radio 100 includes multiple physical components. Namely, the battery155, dual PTT switches 205 a-b, a keypad 210, a GPS antenna port 215, aradio antenna port 220, a control knob 225 (can also include an ON-OFFswitch), a ridge cap 230, a display 235 and an audio I/O 240.Conceivably, the radio 100 can include more, fewer, or differentphysical components.

The radio 100 is shaped such that the dual PTT switches 205 a-b on theleft and right sides of the radio 100 are symmetrical about a verticalaxis and shaped to provide a user with a comfortable grip of the radio100. As shown in FIG. 1, both of the PTT switches 205 a-b are identicalin size and shape, such that a left-handed user can handle the radio 100using a grip substantially similar to that of a right-handed user. ThePTT switches 205 a-b include a concave surface that curves inward alongthe left and right sides of the front and rear surfaces 320 a-b of theradio 100. This curvature provides ease of use and grip to a user withrelatively small hands. In one embodiment, the dual PTT switches 205 a-bare constructed of a member covered with elastomeric material (e.g.,rubber, polymer, silicone). However, solid metal switches are alsopossible. Each PTT switch 205 a-b includes at least one electricalcontact that engages with a processing unit 305 (FIG. 3). FIGS. 2A, 2B,and 2C illustrate each PTT switch 205 a-b as having three embedded domeswitches wired in parallel, however, other implementations includefewer, or additional electrical contacts located at various positions,on each switch.

The keypad 210 is located on a front surface of the radio 100, andincludes a number of buttons or switches that, when activated, generatean electrical output. In one embodiment, the keypad 210 is constructedof buttons or switches covered in an elastomeric material. However, akeypad 210 constructed of metal elements, or a combination of metal andelastomeric elements is also contemplated. The buttons extend throughopenings in a shell formed in the upper portion of the front surface,below the display 235, as shown in FIGS. 2A, 2B, and 2C. The radio 100also includes the GPS antenna port 215 that is compatible with at leastone of a GNSS, GPS L1, GLONASS L1, BeiDou B1, and Galileo E1 frequencysystem, and configured to accept a GPS antenna. In one implementation,the GPS antenna is integrated with a noise amplifier and a pre-filter toprevent saturation by high level sub-harmonics and L-band signals.

The radio 100 includes the antenna port 220 that encompasses ahalf-duplex wireless transceiver configured to alternate betweentransmission and reception of radio signals over a radio network. Theantenna port 220 also includes an antenna jack configured to mate withan antenna and support one, or both, of a narrowband and a widebandwaveform. For example, the antenna port 220 is configured to operateover a narrowband frequency range of 30 MHz-512 MHz, including an AMfrequency (108 to 512 MHz), FM frequency (30 to 512 MHz), and digital FM(Spectre waveform 30 to 512 MHz). The antenna port is also configured tosupport one ECCM waveform to protect narrowband voice and data frominterference, and at least three different encryption algorithms.

The radio 100 includes the software controlled control knob 225 forcontrolling functional aspects of the radio 100 and/or mobile mount 110.For example, the utility knob can be calibrated to control one or moreof a volume of audio output, a selection of a frequency channel, and abrightness and contrast of the display 235. The control knob 225 alsoincludes an ON-OFF switch for powering the radio 100 on and off. Theradio 100 also includes the ridge cap 230, formed from animpact-resistant material such as high impact plastic or metal, arrangedsubstantially around a top portion of the radio 100. The ridge cap 230is a continuous circular component that fastens a front surface 320 aand a rear surface 320 b (FIG. 3) of the radio 100 together.

The radio 100 includes the display 235 mounted within an opening of theupper portion of the front surface. Here, the display 235 is a liquidcrystal display, although any other suitable type of electronic displaycould be considered for use, for example, a touch sensitive display. Theradio 100 can further include the audio I/O 240 that includes a speakerand a microphone mounted within a cavity formed in the lower portion ofthe front surface, and behind a grill or ribbed surface formed over thecavity.

In the depicted embodiment, the radio 100 is configured to embody andperform some or all of the techniques of this disclosure. In someexamples, the techniques described in this disclosure may be sharedamong the various components of the radio 100 and the mobile mount 110.

FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the radio 100. The radio 100is an assembly of various components, including the processing unit 305,a battery connector plug 310 a (or battery terminal), a batteryconnector receptacle 310 b, the ECR 315, a front surface 320 a, and arear surface 320 b. Other parts of the radio 100 described above areillustrated in FIG. 3 for reference. In other examples, the radio 100can be constructed from more, fewer, or different parts.

The radio 100 includes the processing unit 305, enclosed within thefront surface 320 a and rear surface 320 b of the radio 100. Both thefront surface and the rear surface 320 a-b can be formed from the sameimpact-resistant material such as high impact plastic or metal. Theprocessing unit 305 includes a processor, controller, ASIC, fieldprogrammable gate array (FPGA), and/or dedicated hardware. Theprocessing unit 305 also includes a printed circuit board containingelectrical connections that connect with various elements of the radio100 and physically integrate the dual PTT switches 205 a-b, display 235,battery 155, keypad 210, control knob 225 (and ON-OFF switch), ECR 315,and antenna port 220, with the processing unit 305. The processing unit305 also includes a memory unit (not illustrated) containing at leastone of a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), and anon-volatile random access memory (NVRAM). The memory unit providesinstructions and data to the processing unit 305, the instructions beingexecutable to implement various functionality. The processing unit 305also includes RF circuitry, including filter circuits for supporting RFcommunications.

The ECR 315 includes multiple electrically conductive receptacles forcontacting the conductive pins 160 when the radio 100 is mounted to themobile mount 110. In one implementation, the ECR 315 is an array offemale conductive receptacles. In another implementation, the ECR 315 isan array of conductive contact pads, whereby the ECR 315 and theconductive pins 160 are connected via a solder cup and spring headerconfiguration. The ECR 315 interfaces directly or indirectly with any ofthe components of the radio 100 via the processing unit 305. As such,the radio 100 provides information to the control panel 120 and/or theinterface panel 135 of the mobile mount 110 via the conductive pins 160and ECR 315 connection.

The battery 155 includes the battery connector plug 310 a configured toconnect to either the radio 100, or the battery charger 140 via thebattery connector receptacle 310 b. In the depicted implementation, thebattery connector plug 310 a is attached to the battery 155, and thebattery connection receptacle 310 b is attached to the bottom side ofthe rear surface 320 b of the radio 100. The battery connectors 310 a-binclude one of a solder cup or printed circuit board termination bywhich the battery 155 supplies power to the radio 100. The connectors310 a-b can be sealed to substantially 15 psi, and include spring loadedcontacts and a twist-lock mating mechanism configured to physicallysecure the battery 155 to both the radio 100 and mobile mount 110. Theconnectors 310 a-b also provide power contacts between the battery 155and the mobile mount 110, by which the mobile mount 110 supplies powerto charge the battery 155. The connectors 310 a-b provide a ruggedizedseal connection between the battery 155 and the radio 100, making theconnection substantially water proof and shock proof. In the depictedembodiment, the connectors 310 a-b attach using a rotational lockingmechanism, whereby the battery 155 is attached to the radio 100 byrotation for secure positioning. An additional latch lock lockingmechanism is used to secure the battery 155 to the radio 100 once thebattery is attached. The latch lock engages with the battery 155 afterelectrical contacts on the battery have engaged with electrical contactson the radio. The connectors 310 a-b and the latch lock facilitate themaintenance of a constant force between the electrical contacts whilemitigating contact chatter, and preventing inadvertent battery unlockingfrom the rotational locking mechanism.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart 400 illustrating operation of the radio 100 basedon whether it is mounted or unmounted. Those skilled in the art willappreciate that in some embodiments, the actual steps taken in theflowchart 400 may differ from those shown. Depending on the embodiment,certain of the steps described may be removed, others may be added. Forexample, the actual steps and/or order of steps taken in the disclosedprocesses may differ from those shown in FIG. 4.

The flowchart 400 of FIG. 4 begins with a first step 405 when the radio100 is powered on. The radio 100 then goes through an initialization 410process to load operating software and/or firmware, test operationalstatus, and so forth. During initialization 410 in a mounted state, theradio 100 tests operation of the mobile mount 110, as well ascommunication between the radio 100 and the mobile mount 110. During410, the radio 100 loads a default functional profile. This profiledefines the functionality of the physical interfaces of the radio 100(i.e., the PTT switches 205 a-b, the buttons of the keypad 210, etc.) bymapping executable instructions to one or more of the physicalinterfaces upon power up of the radio 100. For example, a particularfunction (e.g., transmit voice mode) is mapped to a user interfacecomponent (e.g., PTT switches 205 a-b) on the radio 100 or mobile mount110. As such, the functional profile can map any number of functions toany of the user interface components. The user can select the defaultfunctional profile to one of a number of stored functional profiles.

In one implementation, the radio 100 has a number of default functionalprofiles that are loaded depending on the state of the radio when it ispowered on. In one example, shown in step 420, the radio 100 loads adefault functional profile based on whether the radio 100 is mounted tothe mobile mount 110. In this example, if the radio 100 is powered onwhile mounted to the mobile mount 110, the radio 100 can go on to step425 and load a default mounted function. The default mounted functionincludes the default functional profile that is loaded by the radio 100when mounted to the mobile mount 110. In one example, the defaultmounted function includes instructions for charging the battery 155 ofthe radio 100 via conductive pins 160 and ECR 315. In an alternativeembodiment, the default mounting function includes instructions forengaging the processing unit 305 as a coprocessor for a CPU or processorof the mobile mount. As such, when the radio 100 is mounted, the mobilemount 110 relies on the processing unit 305 for direct control of all orsome of the mobile mount 110 functionality via the conductive pins 160and ECR 315 connection. The converse is also available. For example,when the radio 100 is mounted, a CPU or processor (not illustrated) ofthe mobile mount 110 can assume direct control of all or some of theradio 100 functionality via the conductive pins 160 and ECR 315connection. As such, the conductive pins 160 and ECR 315 connection canbring the functionality and/or control of either the radio 100 or themobile mount 110, to the other. For example, an external antennaconnected to the antenna connector 180 of the mobile mount 110 mayprovide additional frequency range, higher power levels, and greaterrange to the radio 100 when the radio 100 is mounted, thereby expandingthe operational capabilities of the radio 100.

The processing unit 305 of the radio 100 receives a signal, via the ECR315, from the conductive pins 160 of the mobile mount 110 during theinitialization process 410, notifying the radio 100 that it is mountedto the mobile mount 110. The default mounted function includesinstructions that map or assign radio 100 control interfaces (i.e.,functionality of the dual PTT switches 205 a/b and keypad 210) to thecontrol panel 120 of the mobile mount 110. As one example, a switch orbutton on the control panel 120 can function as the PTT switch alongwith, or in lieu of, the dual PTT switches 205 a-b on the radio 100. Inthis example, the user can activate voice transmission and/or receptionmode using a switch or button on, or connected to, the control panel 120instead of the PTT switches 205 a-b on the radio 100. Otherfunctionalities the radio 100 assigns to the mobile mount 110 includechannel frequency selection, waveform selection, emergency alert,squelch, repeater/talk-around, etc. As such, the user can control theother functionalities of the radio 100 via the control panel 120. In oneimplementation, the dual PTT switches 205 a-b and the keypad 210 can beassigned to perform different functions while mounted to the mobilemount 110. As one example, the user can control the volume and frequencychannel using the keypad or the dual PTT switches 205 a-b on the radio100 while mounted.

In the event that of the radio 100 being powered on while portable(i.e., radio 100 is not mounted to mobile mount 110), the radio 100loads a default portable function, as shown in step 430. In oneimplementation, the default portable function includes an ergonomicpreference. For example, the default portable function includes afunctional profile for a left-handed user. In this example, the radio100 loads stored instructions that assign functions to the variousbuttons and switches on the radio 100 to accommodate the left-handeduser. As such, the PTT switch 205 b can be set as the only switch thatactivates the voice transmission and reception modes on the radio 100.Similarly, the default functional profile can include a right-handeduser functionality, where the PTT switch 205 a can be set as the onlyswitch that activates the voice transmission and reception modes on theradio 100. In one implementation, the default portable function includesa functional profile for executing voice transmission and receptionmodes upon activation of one of either of the dual PTT switches 205 a-b,or concurrent activation of both of the dual PTT switches 205 a-b.Concurrent activation of both of the dual PTT switches 205 a-b offersthe advantage of ensuring that there are no false triggered voicetransmissions by requiring that the user activate both of the dual PTTswitches 205 a-b. In another implementation, the default portablefunction includes the use of either PTT switch 205 a-b to activate thevoice transmission mode, where activation of both switches during voicetransmission mode has no additional effect. In this example, the usercan press either, or both, of the PTT switches 205 a-b to activate voicetransmission mode.

In steps 435 and 450 of FIG. 4, the default functional profile of theradio 100 is updated upon a change of state. In the depicted embodiment,the change of state includes the radio 100 being removed from, ormounted to, the mobile mount 110. As one example, at step 435, the userremoves the radio 100 from the mobile mount 110. Upon removal, theprocessing unit 305 of the radio 100 ceases to receive the signalnotifying the radio 100 that it is mounted. At this point, theprocessing unit 305 of the radio 100 executes a software interrupt atstep 440, followed by loading and executing the default portablefunction at step 445. Similarly, at step 450, the user mounts the radio100 to the mobile mount 110. Upon mounting the radio 100, the processingunit 305 of the radio 100 receives the signal, via the ECR 315 andconductive pins 160 of the mobile mount, notifying the radio 100 that itis mounted. At this point, the processing unit 305 of the radio 100executes the software interrupt at step 455, followed by loading andexecuting the default mounted function 460.

At step 465, the user selects a functional profile, from a number ofprofiles, stored on the processing unit 305 of the radio 100. Uponselection of a functional profile, the radio 100 executes the selectedfunction at step 470. The user can utilize the keypad 210 and/or the PTTswitches 205 a-b to select a functional profile from the number ofdifferent functional profiles. Functional profiles of the radio 100 canbe pre-programmed and stored on the radio 100 or mobile mount 110, orgenerated by the user. As one example, the user mounts the radio 100 tothe mobile mount 110, and connects a computer to the interface panel 135of the mobile mount 110. The user has access the processing unit 305 ofthe radio 100 through this interface, by which the user can generate andstore unique functional profiles, or edit preexisting functionalprofiles. As such, the user maps or assigns various functions to thebuttons and switches on the radio 100, and stores the assignments underone or more profiles. For example, the radio 100 includes software thatprovides the user with the option of generating and storing uniquefunctional profiles on the radio, independent of the mobile mount 110,using the functional interfaces of the radio 100. In anotherimplementation, the user connects the radio 100 to a computer via aserial port on the radio (not illustrated). The user has access to theprocessing unit 305 of the radio 100 through this interface, by whichthe user can generate and store unique functional profiles, or editpreexisting functional profiles.

Mobile Mount Radio Ejection Mechanism

FIG. 5 is a plan view of a portion of the radio 100 and mobile mount110, with a magnified view of a portion of the paddle locking system105. FIG. 5 shows the mobile mount 110 with the radio 100 mounted, andan external microphone handset 510 attached. A first ejection paddle 505a and a second ejection paddle 505 b are illustrated on either side ofthe mounted radio 100. The ejection paddles 505 a-b are constructed froman impact-resistant material such as high impact plastic or metal, andare connected to the paddle locking system 105, such that pressureapplied to either, or both, of the ejection paddles 505 a-b will unlockthe radio 100 from the mobile mount 110. The two paddle system improvesreliability and use of the radio system 200 by providing multiple pointsof operation, giving both driver and passenger access, or alternatively,operator and carrier.

FIG. 6A is a right side perspective view of the handheld radio attachedto the mobile mount in a locked position. FIG. 6B is a right sideperspective view of the handheld radio attached to the mobile mount inan unlocked position. In the example of FIGS. 6A and 6B, the paddlelocking system 105 includes a plurality of physical components. Thephysical components of the paddle locking system 105 include a toothedmember 605, a spring hinge 610, the first ejection paddle 505 a (notillustrated), and the second ejection paddle 505 b. Other aspects of thepaddle locking system 105 described above are illustrated in FIGS. 1 and7 for reference. In other examples, the paddle locking system 105 caninclude more, fewer, or different physical components.

FIGS. 6A and 6B show detail of the paddle locking system 105 operated bythe ejection paddles 505 a-b on the paddle locking system 105 tofacilitate attachment of the radio 100 to the mobile mount 110. Theejection paddles 505 a-b are integrated with at least one spring hinge610 that includes a torsional spring to keep the paddle locking system105 in the locked position illustrated in FIG. 6A. The paddle lockingsystem 105 includes a saw-tooth shaped with a transverse surface and avertical surface, or simply toothed member 605, connected to theejection paddles and the spring hinge 610. The transverse surface of thetoothed member 605 facilitates ease in attaching the radio 100 to themobile mount 110, while the vertical surface prevents removal. It willbe appreciated that although the saw-tooth shaped toothed member 605 isdisclosed and preferred for the present invention, other shapes are alsopossible, including, for example, a generally rectangular tooth and asymmetrically triangular tooth.

As illustrated in FIG. 6A, the radio 100 includes a catch, or holdingpawl 615 for engaging the toothed member 605. The holding pawl 615permits engagement of the radio 100 with the paddle locking system 105,and interferes with movement of the radio 100 once engaged. In thepreferred embodiment, the torsional spring biases the toothed member 605in an upper position. It will be appreciated that the holding pawl 615is disposed forwardly of the spring hinge 610, and the torsional springalso biases the ejection paddles 505 a-b in an outward direction awayfrom the mobile mount 110. As illustrated in FIG. 6B, force can beapplied to the ejection paddles 505 a-b, pivoting the ejection paddles505 a-b in a backward direction, engaging and rotating the spring hinge610, this movement indicated by an arrow 620. This movement lowers thetoothed member 605 from the holding pawl 615 and releases the radio 100from the locked position shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 7 is a front left perspective of the paddle locking system 105,with a magnified view of an electrical interface for functionallycoupling the radio 100 to the mobile mount 110. The paddle lockingsystem 105 includes a plurality of physical components not shown inFIGS. 6A and 6B. The physical components of the paddle locking system105 include the gasket 165, a pair of dowel locating pins 705, and thearray of conductive pins 160. The array of conductive pins 160 includeat least one short pin 710, and a plurality of long pins 715. The shortpins 710 and the long pins 715 can be used to generate various signalsthat are indicative of docking/undocking events, and/or processorcommunication between the radio 100 and the mobile mount 110. Otheraspects of the paddle locking system 105 described above are illustratedin FIGS. 1, 5, 6A, and 6B for reference. In other examples, the paddlelocking system 105 can include more, fewer, or different physicalcomponents.

FIG. 7 illustrates a detailed view of the paddle locking system 105. Thepaddle locking system 105 may be formed from an impact-resistantmaterial such as high impact plastic and/or metal. In the depictedembodiment, the array of conductive pins 160 are formed of anelectrically conductive material, such as copper or aluminum. The paddlelocking system 105 locks the radio 100 into a fixed position whenmounted to the mobile mount 110. The pair of dowel locating pins 705secure the upper sides of the radio to restrict lateral movement of theradio, and also ensure that the conductive pins 160 are properly matedwith the ECR 315.

The conductive pins 160 form a functional and physical interface betweenthe processing unit 305 of the radio 100 and the CPU or processor of themobile mount 110, via the ECR 315. From a functional perspective, theprocessing unit 305 is configured to operate as a coprocessor for themobile mount 110. As such, when the radio 100 is mounted, the mobilemount 110 can rely on the processing unit 305 for direct control of allor some of the mobile mount 110 functionality via the conductive pins160 and ECR 315 connection. The converse is also available. For example,when the radio 100 is mounted, a CPU or processor (not illustrated) ofthe mobile mount 110 can assume direct control of all or some of theradio 100 functionality via the conductive pins 160 and ECR 315connection. As such, the conductive pins 160 and ECR 315 connection canbring the functionality and/or control of either the radio 100 or themobile mount 110, to the other. For example, an external antennaconnected to the antenna connector 180 of the mobile mount 110 mayprovide additional frequency range to the radio 100 when the radio 100is mounted, thereby expanding the operational frequency spectrum.

In one implementation, the conductive pins 160 and ECR connectionfacilitates battery 155 charging while the radio 100 is mounted.Placement of the radio in the enclosure 130 ensures the direction ofcharging current flow into the battery 155. The conductive pins 160 mayautomatically charge the battery 155 attached to the radio 100 uponcreating contact with the conductive pins 160, using proper chargecurrent. The mobile mount 110 and/or radio 100 self-regulate thecharging of the battery 155 by monitoring battery voltage and capacity.In one example, the processing unit 305 monitors the battery voltage atthe battery terminal 310 a and transmit this information periodically tothe mobile mount 110 via the conductive pins 160. The mobile mount canautomatically terminate the charging of the battery 155 upon reaching arated terminal voltage at the battery 155. Continuous charging candamage the batteries and render the batteries unfit for use. As such,monitoring of the battery charge is necessary to maintain the longevityof battery use.

In one implementation, the radio 100 may provide battery information tothe mobile mount 110. The mobile mount 110 then determines a chargingmode based on the type of battery 155. For example, the radio 100 mayprovide information, via the conductive pins 160, to the mobile mount110 identifying a type of battery (e.g., Li-ion, NiCd, NiMH), a chargeheld, a charge state, a peak load current, a charge time, etc. Based onthe information, the mobile mount can regulate the charging of thebattery 155 using different charging modes (e.g., a trickle-charge mode,a constant-voltage mode, a constant-current mode, and a top-off mode),and varying the charging current and/or voltage. In anotherimplementation, the mobile mount 110 determines the type of battery byidentifying an electrical signature based on voltage properties of knownbattery types.

In one implementation, the conductive pins 160 and ECR 315 connectionbrings functionality and/or control to the radio 100 and mobile mount110 using the plurality of long pins 715. Each of the long pins 715 hasa direct connection to multiple physical components of the mobile mount110 and radio 100. As such, the long pins 715 are utilized to transmitpower, GPS data, RF signals, and discrete data. The short pin 710 canprovide a signal to the radio 100 and the mobile mount 110. For example,when the short pin 710 of the conductive pins 160 engages with the ECR315, the radio 100 and/or the mobile mount receives a logic signalvoltage level indicating that the radio 100 has been mounted to themobile mount 110. Upon indication of the mount, functionality of themobile mount 110 and/or the radio 100 changes to the default mountedfunction. The advantage of using the short pin 710 to indicate themount, is that the ECR 315 of the radio 100 may not be fully engagedwith the conductive pins 160. By using the short pin 710, fullengagement of the ECR 315 to the conductive pins 160 is ensured. In analternative embodiment, the radio 100 and/or the mobile mount receive alogic signal voltage level indicating that the radio 100 has beenmounted to the mobile mount 110 via one or more of the long pins 715.

In another implementation, disengagement of the short pin 710 of theconductive pins 160 from the ECR 315 triggers a processor interrupt, orother hardware detection, for both or either of the radio 100 and themobile mount 110. In this manner, when the short pins 710 on both sidesof the conductive pins 160 are connected to the radio 100, a signalindicates that the radio 100 is mounted to the mobile mount 110. Thisconfiguration ensures that the processing unit 305 and/or the CPU orprocessor of the mobile mount 110 are interrupted after the short pins710 on both ends of the conductive pins 160 are connected and/ordisconnected.

In another implementation, the short pin 710 functions to inform theprocessing unit 305 and the CPU or processor of the mobile mount 110that the long pins 715 have connected, and the radio 100 is mounted. Ina similar manner, the short pin 710 will be the first to disconnect andprovide a preliminary warning or process interrupt caused by theundocking event which will allow the processing unit 305 and the CPU orprocessor to complete communications during the undocking process. Asillustrated in FIG. 7, there can be two short pins 710, one associatedwith each of the two arrays of conductive pins 160. Separating the shortpins 710 by a distance on the conductive pins 160 aids in accounting forsituations in which the radio 100 is docked or undocked in a slightlysideways or torqued manner. In such a case, the pins may not beuniformly coupled/decoupled. Having the short pins 710 on only one endof the conductive pins 160 may therefore provide an inaccurateindication of the connection status of the other pins. Thus, having twoshort pins 710 provides a fail-safe mechanism for ensuring that theradio 100 is properly docked. If less than all of the short pins areengaged while mounted, the radio 100 and/or the mobile mount mayindicate an error. Having two short pins 710 also provides a dualredundant aspect in the event one of the short pins 710 fails. Forexample, if one pin fails to indicate that the radio 100 is mounted orunmounted, the user will be notified of the failure to fully engage. Insuch a case, the user can override the failure and rely on the workingshort pin 710.

Mobile Mount Battery Charger

FIG. 8 is a front plan view of a portion of the radio 100 and mobilemount 110, with magnified view of a spare battery 115 attached to abattery charger 140 on the mobile mount. As described briefly above, themobile mount 110 includes the battery charger 140 for charging a sparebattery 115. In one embodiment, the battery charger 140 includes abattery connector plug rotatably attached to the spare batteryconnection receptacle 310 b of the spare battery 115. In anotherembodiment, the battery connector plug and the battery connectionreceptacle 310 b include one of a solder cup or printed circuit boardtermination. The battery connector plug and the spare battery connectionreceptacle 310 b are connected with up to 15 psi of pressure maintaininga connection between contacts. The pressure is generated by a springloaded contact and a twist-lock mating mechanism that physically securesthe spare battery 115 to both the radio 100 and mobile mount 110, viathe battery charger 140. The connectors ensure proper direction ofcharging current flow into the battery.

The connector includes conductive contacts between the battery 155 andthe radio 100 by which the battery 155 can supply power to the radio100. The battery connector plug and the spare battery connectionreceptacle 310 b also include conductive contacts between the sparebattery 115 and the mobile mount 110 by which the mobile mount 110 cansupply the spare battery 115 with power to charge the spare battery 115.The battery connector plug and the spare battery connection receptacle310 b also provide a ruggedized seal connection between the sparebattery 115 and the mobile mount 110, making the connectionsubstantially water proof and shock proof.

The mobile mount 110 battery charger 140 can self-regulate the chargingof the spare battery 115 by monitoring voltage and capacity. In oneexample, the mobile mount 110 monitors the spare battery 115 voltage atthe battery terminal 310 a. The mobile mount automatically terminatesthe charging of the spare battery 115 upon reaching a rated terminalvoltage at the spare battery 115. In another implementation, the mobilemount 110 determines spare battery 115 information based on the load ofthe spare battery 115, and based on transmitting varying currents to thespare battery 115. The mobile mount 110 can then determine a chargingmode based on the battery information. In another example, the user mayselect a type of battery or provide battery information to the mobilemount 110 via the control panel 120 and/or keypad 210. The batteryinformation may identify a type of battery (e.g., Li-ion, NiCd, NiMH), acharge held, a charge state, a peak load current, a charge time, etc.Based on the information, the battery charger 140 can regulate thecharging of the spare battery 115 using different charging modes (e.g.,a trickle-charge mode, a constant-voltage mode, a constant-current mode,and a top-off mode), and varying the charging current and/or voltage.

FIG. 9A is a front left perspective view of the radio 100 attached tothe mobile mount 110, illustrating a first step for attaching the sparebattery 115 to the battery charger 140. FIGS. 9B and 9C aresubstantially similar, and are provided FIG. 9A to illustrate threesteps for attaching the spare battery 115 to the battery charger 140 ofthe mobile mount 110. The steps illustrated are examples. Otherimplementations are contemplated, including battery orientation, batteryattachment, and connection. For example, FIG. 9A illustrates a firststep of attaching the spare battery 115 where the spare battery 115 isoriented substantially horizontal. In other embodiments, the sparebattery 115 orientation of the first step may be vertical, or theorientation may be determined by the user for ease of access.

FIG. 9A shows the first step to attaching the spare battery 115 to thebattery charger 140. The user orients the spare battery 115 such thatthe threads of a connection port will allow the spare battery 115 to beflush with the battery charger 140. FIG. 9B shows the spare battery 115as flush with the battery charger 140. The user can then proceed torotate the spare battery 115 to achieve a locked position with thebattery charger 140. FIG. 9C shows the spare battery 115 in a lockedposition. In this example, the spare battery 115 is rotated clock-wiseby 90 degrees to fully lock with the battery charger 140.

Other Considerations

As used herein, the term “channel frequency selection” refers toswitching the radio to difference frequency channels. The term“push-to-talk switch” or “PTT switch” refers to a switch or button thatthe user triggers to talk, and releases to listen. The term “waveformselection” may refer to selecting and switching the waveform or mode ofthe radio. The term “emergency alert” may refer to the user's ability tosend a priority emergency alert to a specific end-user. For example, theend-user may be a radio or dispatch center. Emergency alerts may havepriority over all other calls.

As used herein, the term “ruggedized” refers to an article specificallydesigned to operate reliably in harsh usage environments and conditions,such as strong vibrations, extreme temperatures, and wet or dustyconditions. The term also refers to a design of the article for the typeof rough use typified by these conditions, not just in the externalhousing but also in the internal components and cooling arrangements aswell.

MIL-STD-810, Environmental Engineering Considerations and LaboratoryTests, is a United States Military Standard that emphasizes tailoring anequipment's environmental design and test limits to the conditions thatit will experience throughout its service life, and establishing chambertest methods that replicate the effects of environments on the equipmentrather than imitating the environments themselves. The MIL-STD-810 testseries are approved for use by all departments and agencies of theUnited States Department of Defense (DoD). The standard's guidance andtest methods are intended to: (i) Define environmental stress sequences,durations, and levels of equipment life cycles; (ii) Be used to developanalysis and test criteria tailored to the equipment and itsenvironmental life cycle; (iii) Evaluate equipment's performance whenexposed to a life cycle of environmental stresses; (iv) Identifydeficiencies, shortcomings, and defects in equipment design, materials,manufacturing processes, packaging techniques, and maintenance methods;and (v) Demonstrate compliance with contractual requirements. In oneimplementation, the tactical multi-band radio system 200, and itsconstituent components, are designed and produced in compliance withMIL-STD-810.

Information and signals disclosed herein may be represented using any ofa variety of different technologies and techniques. For example, data,instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, and chipsthat may be referenced throughout the above description may berepresented by voltages, currents, electromagnetic waves, magneticfields or particles, optical fields or particles, or any combinationthereof.

The various illustrative logical blocks, and algorithm steps describedin connection with the embodiments disclosed herein may be implementedas electronic hardware, computer software, or combinations of both. Toclearly illustrate this interchangeability of hardware and software,various illustrative components, blocks, and steps have been describedabove generally in terms of their functionality. Whether suchfunctionality is implemented as hardware or software depends upon theparticular application and design constraints imposed on the overallsystem. Skilled artisans may implement the described functionality invarying ways for each particular application, but such implementationdecisions should not be interpreted as causing a departure from thescope of the present disclosure.

The techniques described herein may be implemented in hardware,software, firmware, or any combination thereof. Such techniques may beimplemented in any of a variety of devices such as general purposescomputers, wireless communication device handsets, or integrated circuitdevices having multiple uses. Any features described as devices orcomponents may be implemented together in an integrated logic device orseparately as discrete but interoperable logic devices. If implementedin software, the techniques may be realized at least in part by acomputer-readable data storage medium comprising program code includinginstructions that, when executed, performs one or more of the methodsdescribed above. The computer-readable data storage medium may form partof a computer program product, which may include packaging materials.The computer-readable medium may comprise memory or data storage media,such as random access memory (RAM) such as synchronous dynamic randomaccess memory (SDRAM), read-only memory (ROM), non-volatile randomaccess memory (NVRAM), electrically erasable programmable read-onlymemory (EEPROM), FLASH memory, magnetic or optical data storage media,and the like. The techniques additionally, or alternatively, may berealized at least in part by a computer-readable communication mediumthat carries or communicates program code in the form of instructions ordata structures and that can be accessed, read, and/or executed by acomputer, such as propagated signals or waves.

The various illustrative blocks, modules, and circuits described inconnection with the implementations disclosed herein may be implementedor performed with one or more processors, such as one or more digitalsignal processors (DSPs), general purpose microprocessors, anapplication specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field programmablelogic arrays (FPGAs), or other equivalent integrated or discrete logiccircuitry. Such a processor may be configured to perform any of thetechniques described in this disclosure. A general purpose processor maybe a microprocessor; but in the alternative, the processor may be anyconventional processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. Aprocessor may also be implemented as a combination of computing devices,e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor, a plurality ofmicroprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunction with a DSPcore, or any other such configuration. Accordingly, the term“processor,” as used herein may refer to any of the foregoing structure,any combination of the foregoing structure, or any other structure orapparatus suitable for implementation of the techniques describedherein. In addition, in some aspects, the functionality described hereinmay be provided within dedicated software or hardware configured forencoding and decoding, or incorporated in a combined videoencoder-decoder (CODEC). Also, the techniques could be fully implementedin one or more circuits or logic elements.

The techniques of this disclosure may be implemented in a wide varietyof devices or apparatuses, including a wireless handset, an integratedcircuit (IC) or a set of ICs (e.g., a chip set). Various components, orunits are described in this disclosure to emphasize functional aspectsof devices configured to perform the disclosed techniques, but do notnecessarily require realization by different hardware units. Rather, asdescribed above, various units may be combined in a codec hardware unitor provided by a collection of inter-operative hardware units, includingone or more processors as described above, in conjunction with suitablesoftware and/or firmware.

Although the foregoing has been described in connection with variousdifferent embodiments, features or elements from one embodiment may becombined with other embodiments without departing from the teachings ofthis disclosure. However, the combinations of features between therespective embodiments are not necessarily limited thereto. Variousembodiments of the disclosure have been described. These and otherembodiments are within the scope of the following claims.

1. A ruggedized, handheld radio for bidirectional field communication,comprising: a housing; a single half-duplex transceiver arranged in thehousing and configured to transmit and receive signals in a singlecommunication channel over a radio network; and a first push-to-talk(PTT) switch and a second PTT switch configured to switch from a voicereception mode to a voice transmission mode, wherein the first PTTswitch is located on a left side of the housing and the second PTTswitch is located on a right side of the housing, and wherein the firstand second PTT switches are independently operable to actuate thetransmission of radio signals in the single communication channel viathe single half-duplex transceiver.
 2. The handheld radio of claim 1,further comprising a processor and a memory configured to store aplurality of functional profiles associated with the PTT switches,wherein the processor is configured to execute software code and accessthe memory.
 3. The handheld radio of claim 2, further comprising akeypad, mounted on the housing and including a plurality of buttons,wherein each functional profile comprises a mapping of functions tobuttons.
 4. The handheld radio of claim 2, wherein each functionalprofile comprises a functional assignment for each PTT switch.
 5. Thehandheld radio of claim 2, wherein each functional profile comprises atleast one of: a first ergonomic profile associated with a left-handeduser; and a second ergonomic profile associated with a right-handeduser.
 6. A ruggedized, handheld radio for bidirectional fieldcommunication, comprising: a housing; a half-duplex transceiver arrangedin the housing and configured to transmit and receive signals inhalf-duplex mode over a radio network; a first push-to-talk (PTT) switchand a second PTT switch configured to switch from a voice reception modeto a voice transmission mode, wherein the first PTT switch is located ona left side of the housing and the second PTT switch is located on aright side of the housing; and a processor and a memory configured tostore a plurality of functional profiles associated with the PTTswitches, wherein the processor is configured to execute software codeand access the memory, wherein at least one of the functional profilesis configured to assign an unlocking function to the first PTT switch,wherein activation of the second PTT switch is configured to initiatethe voice transmission mode while the first PTT switch is activated, thevoice transmission mode being enabled for a time period that the secondPTT switch is activated.
 7. The handheld radio of claim 5, furthercomprising a third ergonomic profile configured to assign a frequencychannel selection functionality to at least one of the first PTT switchand the second PTT switch.
 8. The handheld radio of claim 1, wherein thehandheld radio is constructed in compliance with MIL-STD-810.
 9. Thehandheld radio of claim 1, wherein the PTT switches are arrangedsymmetrically about a vertical axis.
 10. The handheld radio of claim 1,further comprising a field programmable gate array (FPGA), wherein theFPGA is electrically connected to the first and second PTT switches. 11.The handheld radio of claim 1, wherein each of the PTT switches have anergonomic shape for gripping by either of a left hand and a right hand.12. The handheld radio of claim 1, wherein the housing has an ergonomicshape for hand gripping.
 13. A method of operating a ruggedized,handheld radio, comprising: transmitting, via a single transceiver,signals in a single communication channel over a radio network;receiving, via the transceiver, signals in the single communicationchannel over the radio network; and switching from a voice receptionmode to a voice transmission mode using at least one of a firstpush-to-talk (PTT) switch and a second PTT switch, wherein the first PTTswitch is located on a left side of the radio and the second PTT switchis located on a right side of the radio, and wherein the first andsecond PTT switches are independently operable to actuate thetransmission of radio signals in the single communication channel viathe single transceiver.
 14. The method of claim 13, further comprisingretrieving a selected one of a plurality of functional profiles, via aprocessor, from a memory configured to store each functional profileassociated with the PTT switches, wherein the processor is configured toexecute software code and access the memory.
 15. The method of claim 14,wherein the plurality of functional profiles comprise at least one of: afirst ergonomic profile associated with a left-handed user; and a secondergonomic profile associated with a right-handed user.
 16. A method ofoperating a ruggedized, handheld radio, comprising: transmitting, via asingle transceiver, signals in half-duplex mode over a radio network;receiving, via the transceiver, signals in half-duplex mode over theradio network; switching from a voice reception mode to a voicetransmission mode using at least one of a first push-to-talk (PTT)switch and a second PTT switch, wherein the first PTT switch is locatedon a left side of the radio and the second PTT switch is located on aright side of the radio; and assigning an unlocking function to thefirst PTT switch, wherein activation of the second PTT switch isconfigured to initiate the voice transmission mode while the first PTTswitch is activated, the voice transmission mode enabled for a durationof time that the second PTT switch is activated.
 17. The method of claim15, further comprising a third ergonomic profile configured to assign afrequency channel selection functionality to at least one of the firstPTT switch and the second PTT switch.
 18. The method of claim 13,wherein the PTT switches are arranged symmetrically about a verticalaxis.
 19. The handheld radio of claim 1, further comprising a processorand a memory configured to store a plurality of functional profilesassociated with the PTT switches, wherein the processor is configured toaccess the memory and execute software code corresponding to thefunctional profile selected by a user via at least one of a keypad andthe PTT switches.
 20. The method of claim 13, further comprising:storing a plurality of functional profiles associated with the PTTswitches; permitting user selection of one of the functional profiles;and after user selection, configuring functional operation of at leastone of the keypad and PTT switches according to the selected functionalprofile.